Jordan Johnson, a fourth-year marketing major hailing from Harrison, envisioned traversing the globe and immersing herself in diverse cultures. Little did she anticipate that her study abroad experience through the Rome Center would not only fulfill her wanderlust but also reshape her approach to learning.
Opting for the summer semester in Rome, Johnson engaged in a spectrum of classes, including Global Changemakers and an International Studies internship. The Sam M. Walton College of Business student saw this as an opportunity to not only explore the world but also acquire skills relevant to her education.
“The Rome Center and Global Studies program sounded like a perfect match for me,” she expressed, citing a friend’s recommendation.
Her time abroad wasn’t confined to marketing courses; she delved into Italian Language and Culture, Global Studies, and The History of Women in Art and Architecture, unique offerings of the Rome Center. Field excursions provided a tangible connection between classroom content and real-world experiences.
The experience didn’t just enrich Johnson’s personal life; it transformed her approach to education. Studying in one of the world’s most culturally and historically rich cities broadened her perspective, fostering an interactive learning environment that encourages curiosity and deeper exploration of course content.
“My study abroad experience has changed the way I learn forever,” she affirmed. “Now, I will always think about how the things I learn in my home country would apply on a global scale or in different cultures.”
Among the plethora of memories, her favorite emanates from the Global Changemakers course excursion, where visits to a juvenile prison, a buffalo mozzarella farm, and a co-op aiding disadvantaged individuals provided insights into Italian culture.
“I never thought that for a school field trip I would get to visit a juvenile prison, a buffalo mozzarella farm, and a co-op working to give disadvantaged individuals a chance to learn skills,” she reflected.
During her free time, Johnson explored not just Rome but 27 cities across six countries, with a significant focus on Italy’s diverse culture. Her Roman escapades included indulging in the best cafes, relishing gelato, museum visits, and strolling through the city to appreciate its beauty. Largo di Torre Argentina, a plaza housing ancient ruins and a cat sanctuary, stands out as her favorite Rome landmark.
“Studying abroad has given me more unforgettable experiences than I can count and many new friendships that I will keep well beyond returning home,” Johnson remarked. “It has also allowed me to experience different ways of life from my own and expanded my perspective of the world. Rome will hold a special place in my heart for the rest of my life, and I encourage anyone who is considering studying abroad even just a little bit to go for it.”
